Shamiam meets the Fairy of the Forest and Silly Billy

She suffered devastating injuries as a baby when a candle fell into her cot, but brave burns survivor Shamiam Arif has never let that stop her having a good time.

The 12-year-old Luton lass who’s in Year 8 at Challney Girls High whooped with delight at Dunstable’s Grove Theatre’s panto Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, screaming with fear during the ghost sequence and booing baddie Captain Hook – alias Neighbours star Alan Fletcher – at every opportunity.

She was there with as a VIP guest with siblings Shakaib, Shamita and Monoor as well as cousins Ayesha, Aadil and Bilal.

Shamiam was intrigued by Robin Hood, played by Eleanor Sandars. “Is that a lady playing a man?” she asked.

After the panto, she was introduced to its stars, including Fairy of the Forest Anna Kumble – aka 90s pop star Lolly – and ventriloquist Steve Hewlett, who was in last year’s final of Britain’s Got Talent.

Shamiam’s verdict: “He was brilliant – and I loved the Fairy’s costumes.”

> Robin Hood is on until January 3. Call the Box Office on 01582 602080.